How to Spot and Avoid Identity Theft Scams

Millions of Americans are affected by identity theft scams each year. As technology rapidly evolves, these scams are on the rise and it’s more important than ever to be aware of how to protect your personal information. Scammers constantly change their tactics, and staying informed is the best way to protect yourself. In honor of National Identity Theft Awareness week, here are some common types of fraud you should watch out for:

Imposter Scams

Imposter Scams are one of the most common ways scammers steal personal information. Scammers will contact you via phone or email and pretend to be businesses, government agencies or even family members. A popular trick right now involves fake Amazon alerts about suspicious activity on your account, which can lead to identity theft or malware.

Lottery and Sweepstakes Scams

These scams often promise large prizes but require paying upfront fees or providing personal information. Legitimate organizations will never ask for payment before awarding a prize. If you’re asked to cover taxes, processing fees or any other costs in advance, it’s a clear sign of a scam.

Gift Card Scams

Scammers often request gift cards as a quick and untraceable way to steal money. Along with the request, they may try to collect personal information, increasing the risk of identity theft. Once you provide the gift card details, the money is immediately gone. Always confirm any unexpected request directly, especially if it involves sharing sensitive information.

Romance Scams

Romance scams can lead to identity theft when scammers gain trust and convince victims to share personal or financial details. This information is then used to open accounts or commit fraud.

IRS Scams

In IRS scams, fraudsters impersonate tax agents, threatening legal action unless you provide personal information. These scammers often prey on your fear of tax issues, however, it’s important to remember that the IRS never demands payment via phone calls or email.

Fake Employment Offers

If you receive an unsolicited employment offer asking for sensitive details, like your social security number, be cautious. Legitimate companies won’t ask for this information until after interviews. Research the company and verify the offer before responding.

Best Practices to Avoid Scams

Avoid clicking on suspicious links in emails or text messages. Scammers often use malicious links to steal personal info or install malware. Always visit trusted websites directly to verify activity.
Let your voicemail handle unknown calls. Answering these calls can confirm your number is active, leading to more unwanted contact.
Have a refusal script ready if asked for personal details over the phone. To protect your information, simply say, “I don’t do business over the phone.”
If a romance scam targets you, stop all communication immediately. Don’t share personal information; consult with someone you trust to verify the situation.
Talk to friends and family about scams to keep everyone informed. Sharing your experiences can help others stay alert and avoid falling victims.